Soul legend escapes jail

Soul legend James Brown escaped jail and was let off with a $1,100 fine after admitting he beat up his wife.

The Godfather of Soul had originally denied pushing wife Tomi Rae to the floor and threatening to kill her during an argument at their home in Beech Island, South Carolina last year.

But the 71-year-old said he wanted to keep his family life private and entered a no-contest plea to avoid a jury trial. It also meant he forfeited his $1,100 bail to escape a jail sentence.

Brown's lawyer, Jim Huff, said: "A public trial would subject his wife to cross examination and challenge her veracity, which would have the potential of harming their relationship. My client desires to avoid this."

Brown received a state pardon last year in South Carolina after seven convictions over a ten-year period involving drugs and guns.

Meanwhile, Tomi Rae, also a singer, is standing by her man and has kept quiet on the abuse allegations. She is currently seeking an annulment from a former husband to ensure her union with Brown is legal.